The Chevy Chase headed Fletch movies, based on the books by Gregory McDonald, were two of my favourite comedies of the 1980’s. The character is back on the screen for the first time since then, this time played by John Hamm. When he becomes the prime suspect in multiple murders, the now ex-journalist tries to prove his innocence while simultaneously searching for his fiancé’s stolen art collection.
This film perfectly recaptures the feel of the originals. Johm Hamm may not quite have the impeccable comic timing and unique delivery style that Chase has but he fills his shoes pretty well. The script by Greg Mottola, who also directs, and Zev Borow is full of great, mostly sarcastic one-liners and the plot is full of twists and turns.
There is a lot of talent in the supporting cast. John Slattery is particularly good as Fletch’s old editor and Ayden Mayeri is particularly funny as one of the cops investigating the murder.
Let’s hope that this is the first of a series.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10